Painting Laminate Cabinets In 7 Steps

Painting laminate cabinets can be an alternative to the costly chore replacing them. If the cabinets are in good condition and are simply in need of a little sprucing up, painting them will cost far less money than getting new ones, plus, far less work will be  involved. The chore painting laminate cabinets is d=far less difficult than one might think.  Follow these instructions providing a new look for your worn out laminate cabinets that could help them last another 20 years.

Materials Needed
•Screwdriver
•Safety goggles
•Power sander
•Sandpaper
•Lint-free cloth
•Primer
•Paint brushes
•Sealer
•Paint
•Masking tape

Step 1 – Remove All Doors
Using an appropriate screwdriver, remove all  of the laminate cabinet drawers as well as all the drawers. Remove all existing hardware. You might wish to select new hardware for an updated look if so desired. Make sure to clean away all grease and dirt from the cabinet surface area as well as the drawers, doors and bases.

Step 2 – Sand
Use a power sander with 100 grit paper to thoroughly sand the entire surface area of the laminate cabinets. Once sanded, wipe the surface area clean with a lint-free cloth. Make sure to sand all bases, also.

Step 3 – Primer Coat
Apply a coat of primer to all surface areas including the doors, drawer fronts and base areas. It is recommended to apply two coats of primer

Step 4 – Paint the Laminate Cabinets
Using your selected paint, apply the first coat with even, long strokes. Pay special attention to painting facing doors with an even application. Allow the first coat at least 24 hours drying time before proceeding.

Step 5 – Repeat the Painting Process
Repeat applying an additional coat in the same manner as the first, Always work carefully, slowly and deliberately so you not only get the desired results but maintain a high level of safety while conducting this do-it-yourself project. Again, allow a 24-hour drying time.

Step 6 – Seal It
Protect the painted finish by applying a coat of clear sealer to all surface areas including the doors, drawer fronts  and base areas. Used either a semi-gloss or high-gloss sealer that can either be hand painted or sprayed directly on to the laminate cabinets. Make sure to allow the sealing coat at least 24 hours to dry before proceeding.

Step 7 – Replace Hardware
After the sealing coat has thoroughly dried, replace all hardware or install new hardware if looking for an updated appearance. A laminate cabinet facelift might include the purchase of new hardware especially if the old has started to look worn or works improperly. Make sure when installing new hardware you purchase similar sized as the old in order to use the existing screw holes for attaching the new hardware.

Things to Remember
•Make sure to properly ventilate the kitchen before beginning the project by opening windows and possible employing the use of a standard box fan to exhaust any fumes during the chore.
•Be prepared to clean any excess spillage. Mask off edges and sink compartment areas with tape to help in the clean up process.